West Africa

Building Bridges: A New Chapter in Somali-Djibouti Relations In a world that thrives on connection, the words spoken between nations carry a significance that transcends borders. The echoes of diplomacy are particularly resonant in the Horn of Africa, where unity and cooperation can lead to prosperous and stable futures. Against this backdrop, a recent developmental chord was struck during a conversation between two key figures in African diplomacy, marking the beginning of a promising era. On a recent…

Restructuring for a New Dawn at Nigeria's NNPC On an ordinary morning, beneath the picturesque skies that often grace Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu made an extraordinary decision, one that would ripple across the oil-rich nation: the dissolution of the board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC). Among those relieved of their duties were notable figures such as its Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, and Board Chairman, Pius Akinyelure. The sun had barely peeked over the horizon when presidential…

UN Aircraft's Emergency Landing at Aden Adde International Airport An unexpected scene unfolded at Mogadishu's Aden Adde International Airport this past Tuesday afternoon when a United Nations-registered aircraft was compelled to make an emergency landing. The reason? A malfunction in its front landing gear, an issue that, while nerve-wracking, was adeptly managed by quick-acting aviation professionals on the ground and in the air. The aircraft in question, a DHC-8-402Q Dash 8 operated by…

The interconnected world of geopolitics sees alliances shift like desert sands under the Sahel sun. This week heralds a significant move as foreign ministers from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are making their way to Moscow, a decision that resonates beyond its political intent. These nations, bound by the chains of recent history and military governance, have chosen a path divergent from their traditional ties, reaching out to Russia in what can only be described as a poignant pivot in international relations. Such a…

The office of former President George M. Weah has issued a pointed rebuttal to allegations regarding the non-return of a vehicle used during his presidency. This controversy has sparked discussions surrounding the procurement of a high-end, bulletproof vehicle for the current President, Joseph Boakai. The implications of such claims extend beyond mere accusations; they touch upon perceptions of leadership, responsibility, and the expectations of public service. Weah’s aides didn’t hold back in their criticism. They labeled…

Mogadishu (AX) – It was yet another test for the resilience of the Somali National Army (SNA), bolstered by local militia fighters, as they faced down a formidable assault by Al-Shabaab on a tense Monday morning. The battleground? The rugged terrains of Sabiib and Canole areas in the heart of Lower Shabelle. Government officials reported a decisive victory, with at least 30 militants neutralized in the confrontation. This account oozes strategic readiness and highlights a renewed effort to tighten security across the region.…

Ghana’s digital payments realm is a fascinating mosaic of resilience and evolution, continually adapting to the ever-changing landscape of financial technology. Despite the intermittent shuffle of regulations, this sector remains unyielding in its growth trajectory. A recent surge in the numbers paints a vivid picture of this steadfast expansion. Picture yourself in January 2025. A new year, fresh beginnings, yet the drive of the digital world roars on. Mobile money transactions scaled an impressive GH₵333…

Let me take you on a little journey. Picture a bustling city, where stress and hurried footsteps dictate the rhythm of life. Now imagine stepping into a realm where that rhythm transforms into a gentle flow. This shift became abundantly clear the moment my friend guided me to her dentist in the Netherlands. There, without any formalities or obstacles—no tiresome insurance queries or burdensome forms—I was embraced by the health system. Immediate care was given, because here, help is simply about addressing…

Somalia's Presidential Initiative: A New Dawn for National Dialogue The statement from the Maanshiil Forum was clear and resolute: "We consider the President's call a commendable and timely initiative that deserves a positive and responsible response." Their words echo a sentiment of hope and possibility, a belief that with the right steps, Somalia could conquer the political uncertainty and myriad security threats that have long plagued it. In a political landscape as turbulent and varied as Somalia's,…

Naira-for-Crude Strategy: A Complex Dance of Economics When you think about the intricate ballet of Nigeria's economic strategies, the Naira-for-Crude deal is undeniably a standout performance. But how does this strategy really influence the steps of fuel prices and broader economic indicators? Let's delve into this with a fresh perspective. A trusted source intimately familiar with the workings of the government committee overseeing the Naira-for-Crude arrangement confided to the Punch…